Nepal Makes Nearly 100 Himalayan Peaks Free to Climb
Move over, Everest — Nepal is opening up dozens of its lesser-known summits to climbers, free of charge.
In a bold new move, the Nepalese government has announced that 97 Himalayan mountains will be free to climb for the next two years. The goal? To ease pressure on overcrowded Everest while shining a spotlight on the country’s many overlooked peaks.
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Despite boasting over 490 climbable summits — including eight of the world’s ten highest mountains — most expeditions funnel toward a handful of big-name destinations. Last year alone, 421 climbers ascended Everest, generating nearly three-quarters of Nepal’s $5.9 million mountaineering revenue. By contrast, all 97 of the lesser-known mountains together saw just 68 climbers.
This imbalance has led to both environmental concerns and dangerous overcrowding. From September, the government will introduce stricter rules for Everest hopefuls, requiring them to prove they’ve already scaled at least one Nepali peak above 7,000 metres. At the same time, Everest climbing fees are expected to rise to $15,000 per person.
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By waiving permit fees on dozens of alternative summits — many located in the remote Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces — officials hope to redistribute climbers, boost local economies, and give underdeveloped regions a much-needed lift.
“These mountains are alluring and worth climbing,” said Himal Gautam of Nepal’s Tourism Department in an interview with CNN. “Out of 462 mountains open for expeditions, 102 are still virgin — waiting for their first climbers.”
For adventurous mountaineers, the offer presents a rare chance: world-class Himalayan climbs at a fraction of the cost, while contributing to the sustainability of Nepal’s mountain tourism.
